August 16, 2010 - 8:27 am
Native Indian jewelry, especially on the Navajo and Zuni variety,is generating increasing interest due to the beautiful and stunning design and workmanship. It will be based upon a tradition that is not that long, going back to about the midst of the 19th century. The emphasis this is on the silverwork that is used in the making of the jewelry. You will find there’s fascinating history which is worth considering. It is an American legacy of the native Indians, from the time of the Spanish Conquest. So in that sense it is a tradition that goes back to the founding times of America.
Native American Indian jewelry was, which is, generally classified into two main types – beadwork and metalwork. Beadwork has a longer history stretching time for pre-Colombian times. It concentrated on the use of natural materials, and semi-precious gemstones, such as shells and turquoise, animal bones and ivory.
The influence was within the south-west of the American continent. In fact, it was the Mexicans first who learned the skill of silversmithing from the Spanish invaders. Following the native Indians learned it from the Mexicans, their skill gradually grew and has developed into the intricate use of silver with gemstones like turquoise, with distinctive designs that are stunningly eye-catching.
The Navajo are credited with being the tribe that helped spread the craft of silversmithing. Being of a nomadic nature, the Navajo came frequently into contact with the Spanish in the south-west from about the late 16th century. There were clashes and sometimes friendly association. The Spanish personal ornaments and adornments fascinated the Indians. And they began to copy or assimilate the Spanish style and began to wear ornaments made from so-called German silver. But silversmithing, using real silver, was not yet within their grasp.
Go to Navajo Jewelry For more information..